Desserts

French Apple Invisible Cake

Name: French Apple Invisible Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced; 3 large eggs; 100g (1/2 cup) sugar; 100g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 100ml (1/2 cup) milk; 30g (2 tablespoons) melted butter; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 175
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 90mg

Why Make This French Apple Invisible Cake

French Apple Invisible Cake is a delightful dessert that takes advantage of fresh, seasonal apples. Its unique name comes from the way the thinly sliced apples blend into the batter, creating a moist and flavorful cake with the illusion of fruit floating invisibly within. This cake boasts a lovely balance of sweetness from the sugar and natural apple flavor, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. It’s not just about taste—this cake offers a fantastic texture, crumbly and lightly dense, which pairs beautifully with a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as an afternoon snack with tea, this cake is sure to impress!

How to Make French Apple Invisible Cake

Creating an Invisible Cake is simple and rewarding, even for novice bakers. Follow these steps to whip up this charming French dessert!

Ingredients:

3 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced
3 large eggs
100g (1/2 cup) sugar
100g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
100ml (1/2 cup) milk
30g (2 tablespoons) melted butter
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan. This step is crucial as it prevents the cake from sticking and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving the cake a light and airy texture.

Step 3: Cooking

Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gently mix until just combined. Add in the vanilla extract, milk, and melted butter, stirring until smooth. Finally, fold in the sliced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.

Step 4: Finishing

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for a bit before removing it from the pan. For a beautiful presentation, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve French Apple Invisible Cake

Serve slices of your French Apple Invisible Cake slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for those wanting a richer experience. You can also enjoy it alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee—perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Store French Apple Invisible Cake

To keep your French Apple Invisible Cake fresh, store it at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, place it in the refrigerator, where it will last about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying!

Expert Tips for Perfect French Apple Invisible Cake

Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious all work well.
Make sure to slice the apples thinly; this allows them to integrate smoothly into the batter, creating that "invisible" effect.
Avoid overmixing your batter once the flour is added to keep the cake light.
For a touch of spice, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture.

Delicious Variations

Cinnamon Swirl: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter for a warm spice note that complements the apples beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add texture and flavor.
Dried Fruits: Mix in some raisins or dried cranberries to introduce a little chewiness to the cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different kinds of apples?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match apple varieties. Just ensure they’re all suitable for baking to maintain the best flavor.
How do I know when the cake is done?
You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done!
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for the best results.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use a plant-based milk and butter substitute.
What occasions is this cake suitable for?
This cake is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even holiday celebrations. Its light texture makes it ideal for dessert after a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Making French Apple Invisible Cake is a fun and straightforward process that delivers a deliciously rustic dessert. With its tender apples and fluffy cake base, it sparks joy in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe invites you to indulge in a charming culinary experience. So gather your ingredients and give this delightful cake a try—you won’t be disappointed!